The consensus on Camden Chat (and thankfully, the limited insight from Dan Duquette as well) has been that the Orioles should absolutely be buyers this year, to bolster their surprising run, but that they shouldn't give up the farm for any rental players.

A lot of the Orioles trade speculation has swirled around big-name pitchers, and rightfully so with 3/5ths of our Opening Day rotation in AAA. But the Orioles also have gaping offensive holes. In particular, it's clear that the Orioles could really use a reliable bat at LF, and could add one without demoting anyone who shouldn't already be on the bench. So why aren't we talking about Justin Upton - even if we do have to sell the farm to get him?

How often do teams have the opportunity to obtain an under-25 superstar with three more years of team control? How often does it jive perfectly with the team's short-term needs as well? Justin Upton and the Orioles are that rare scenario. Arizona has publicly stated that they will field offers for Upton, but that they will only be motivated to move him for top-tier prospects, in particular 3B and SS.

Dan Duquette should put together a serious offer that includes Manny Machado and go all-in for Justin Upton. It's a win-win-win for Baltimore, Arizona, and Upton himself, who clearly needs a change of scenery after his falling out with team management. This is the one and only player for whom it's worth "selling the farm" - he can also be a major part of the Next Winning Orioles Team that we all like to think about. Even if this season tanks after the All-Star Break, this would not be a regrettable trade.